Chateau Chasse-SpleenProducer from Bordeaux, France

Moulis-en-Médoc, Bordeaux

Château Chasse-Spleen is one of the most renowned estates in the Moulis-en-Médoc appellation, known for producing wines of exceptional structure, depth, and ageing potential. Despite not being included in the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Chasse-Spleen is widely regarded as one of the finest wines in Bordeaux, consistently delivering a unique expression of the Médoc terroir. With a history that dates back to the early 19th century and a commitment to producing wines of the highest quality, Château Chasse-Spleen is a true benchmark for the Moulis appellation.

History of Château Chasse-Spleen

The history of Château Chasse-Spleen is as intriguing as its name, which is believed to have been inspired by the 19th-century poet Charles Baudelaire, who referred to the estate in his poetry. The name "Chasse-Spleen" translates to "chasing away melancholy," a reflection of the estate’s reputation for producing wines that bring joy and pleasure.

The estate was established in the early 19th century and quickly gained recognition for the quality of its wines. Over the years, Château Chasse-Spleen has been owned by several prominent families, each contributing to its development and reputation. In the mid-20th century, the estate was acquired by the Merlaut family, who have since invested significantly in the vineyard and winery. Under their stewardship, Chasse-Spleen has flourished, becoming one of the most respected names in the Moulis appellation.

The Terroir of Château Chasse-Spleen

The terroir of Château Chasse-Spleen is one of its most defining features, contributing to the unique character and quality of its wines. The estate’s 80 hectares of vineyards are located on a gravelly ridge in the heart of Moulis-en-Médoc, where the soils are a mix of gravel, clay, and limestone. These well-drained soils are ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon, which is the dominant grape variety at Chasse-Spleen, along with Merlot and Petit Verdot.

The vineyard is planted with 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot. This blend reflects the estate’s commitment to producing wines that are both powerful and balanced, with Cabernet Sauvignon providing structure and ageing potential, Merlot adding richness and roundness, and Petit Verdot contributing aromatic complexity and depth.

The unique combination of soils, exposure, and grape varieties allows Château Chasse-Spleen to produce wines that are both powerful and elegant, with a remarkable ability to age gracefully over decades.

Winemaking at Château Chasse-Spleen

Winemaking at Château Chasse-Spleen is a meticulous process that combines tradition with innovation. The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo rigorous sorting to ensure that only the finest fruit is used in the winemaking process. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, allowing for precise control over the extraction of flavours and tannins.

The wines are then aged in French oak barrels for 12 to 18 months, with about 40% new oak used each year. This ageing process enhances the wines' complexity and depth, allowing the tannins to soften and the flavours to integrate harmoniously. The result is a wine that is both approachable in its youth and capable of developing greater complexity and nuance over time.